Differential diagnosis of cavity in x ray mastoid

Till recently X ray mastoids was a commonly performed radiological investigation. Here we will be discussing the various causes of cavity seen in xray mastoids.

1. Cholesteatomatous cavity: Radiologically this cavity will be surrounded by a rim of sclerosis.

2. Granulation cavity: Cavity will show hair line appearance

3. Operated cavity: Patient will give history of previous mastoid surgery. The margins of the cavity may be irregular and will not show sclerosis

4. Secondaries

5. Multiple myeloma

6. Tuberculosis

7. Eosinophilic granuloma

8. Large antral air cell - usually bilateral